Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this publication contains images and names of people who are deceased.  

Readers should be aware that this publication includes references to sexual assault and suicide.

1 January

A sober start to the New Year

Traditional New Year celebrations are curtailed in many parts of Australia due to COVID-19 restrictions.[2] As the days pass, mask requirements, limits on occupation density, restrictions on visits to facilities such as hospitals and aged care centres, snap lockdowns and interstate travel restrictions are introduced progressively as case numbers grow. A new COVID-19 variant is identified.[3]

As at 3pm on 1 January ‘28,427 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Australia, including 909 deaths, and approximately 237 active cases’.[4] 

Image source: Shutterstock

1 January

Change to the National Anthem

On 30 December 2020 Governor-General David Hurley issues a Proclamation changing the second line of the Australian National Anthem ‘For we are young and free’ to ‘For we are one and free’.^[5] The Proclamation takes effect on 1 January 2021.

8 January

Changes to international travel and new domestic border restrictions

National Cabinet agrees to changed arrangements for international air travel, including reductions in the international arrivals cap and mandating travellers return a negative COVID-19 test before travel.[6] On 16 January the federal Government announces increased repatriation flights to return Australians stranded abroad.[7]

Brisbane enters a three-day lockdown after a quarantine-hotel cleaner tests positive for the UK COVID-19 variant. Other states and territories respond by implementing restrictions for travellers from greater Brisbane.^[8]

25 January

Pfizer vaccine

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) provisionally approves the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID‑19 vaccine for use in Australia.[9] The first Pfizer doses arrive in mid-February.[10]

28 January

Shadow Ministry reshuffle

The Leader of the Opposition, Anthony Albanese (ALP, Grayndler, NSW), announces a reshuffle of the shadow ministry.^[11] Among other changes, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Richard Marles (ALP, Corio, Vic.), becomes Shadow Minister of a new portfolio, National Reconstruction, Employment, Skills and Small Business and Shadow Minister for Science, while Chris Bowen (ALP, McMahon, NSW) becomes Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy and Mark Butler (ALP, Hindmarsh, SA) becomes Shadow Minister for Health and Ageing.

Richard Marles
Image source: Auspic

29 January

Presiding Officers' statement: Parliament House access and operations

The Presiding Officers announce changed access arrangements for Parliament House in accordance with the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government’s COVID-19 Easing of Restrictions Roadmap. Parliament House remains open to the public, though bookings are required. There are also restrictions on numbers able to attend committee hearings or chamber galleries.^[12]

1 February

Lockdown and travel restrictions for parts of Western Australia; Queensland border re-opens

Following the announcement on 31 January of a five-day lockdown for parts of Western Australia (WA) due to a hotel quarantine security guard having contracted COVID-19,^[13] other states and territories bring in travel restrictions for people from the affected areas.^[14]

WA senators and members are able to attend the Parliament ‘in accordance with arrangements agreed between the Parliament and territory health officers, including a COVID-19 test regime’.[15]

Queensland opens its border to all states except WA.[16]

2 February

Changed procedures in the Senate

The Senate begins recording divisions on tablet devices and reporting the results online in real time. The Senate also resumes its practice of locking the Chamber doors for divisions, which had been suspended ‘from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a suite of hygiene and social distancing measures’.^[17]

The Senate in session
Image source: Auspic

2 February

Condolence motions for Michael Jeffery

Condolence motions in the House of Representatives^[18] and the Senate^[19] pay tribute to former Governor‑General Michael Jeffery, who died on 18 December 2020. He served as Governor-General from 2003 to 2008.

Michael Jeffery
Image source: Auspic
Watch the condolence motions in the House and the Senate

3 February

Condolence motions for Doug Anthony

Following his death on 20 December 2020, condolence motions in the House of Representatives^[20] and the Senate^[21] pay tribute to former Country Party (later National Party) leader John Douglas ‘Doug’ Anthony (ACP/NCP/NPA, Richmond, NSW). 

Doug Anthony was first elected  in 1957, winning in a by-election following the sudden death of his father Hubert Anthony, the sitting member. In 1996 his son Larry Anthony became the third generation of the family to represent Richmond in the federal Parliament.

When elected party leader in 1971 at age 41, Anthony was the youngest ever leader of the party. He retired in 1984, after serving in the Menzies, Holt, McEwen, Gorton, McMahon and Fraser ministries.

Doug Anthony
Image source: Auspic
Watch the condolence motions in the House and the Senate

3 February

Statements on Indulgence: COVID-19

The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition make statements on Indulgence regarding Craig Kelly’s (Lib., Hughes, NSW) comments about COVID-19.[22]

Watch the Statements on Indulgence

3 February

First Speech: Senator Small

WA Senator Ben Small (Lib., WA) makes his First Speech in Parliament.^[23]

Senator Small was chosen by the Parliament of WA to fill the casual vacancy caused by  Senator Mathias Cormann’s resignation on 6 November 2020.

Senator Ben Small
Image source: Auspic
Watch Senator Small’s First Speech

3 February

Glenn Richards walks from Melbourne to Canberra to raise awareness of veterans’ rights

Having walked 624 kilometres from Melbourne to Canberra, Glenn Richards arrives at Parliament House. The aim of his walk is to raise awareness of issues affecting veterans, and he calls for a Royal Commission into veterans’ welfare.^[24]

5 February

Increased international arrivals

National Cabinet agrees to an increase in international arrivals in most states from 15 February.[25]

11 February

South Australia closes border to greater Melbourne

After a COVID-19 outbreak at a Melbourne quarantine hotel, South Australia (SA) closes its border to residents of greater Melbourne.^[26]

11 February

Presiding Officers’ statement: Parliament House access and operations

The Presiding Officers announce that, following consultation with parliamentary departments and health officials, access arrangements to Parliament House for the upcoming sitting fortnight will remain unchanged.^[27]

12 February

Lockdown in Victoria

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announces that the state will enter a five-day lockdown following cases of a ‘hyper-infectious variant’ in Melbourne.^[28] The lockdown lifts on 17 February, but the state remains shut to international flights. Subsequently, neighbouring states close their borders to Victorians.^[29]

12 February

Senator McKenzie appears before Sports Grants Committee

Following a Senate motion on 8 December 2020 directing her to attend,^[30] Senator Bridget McKenzie (NP, Vic.) appears as a witness at a public hearing of the Senate Select Committee into the Administration of Sports Grants.

Senator Bridget McKenzie
Image source: Auspic

15 February

Agreement for Members to contribute remotely

In response to the COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria, the House of Representatives agrees to enable Members to contribute remotely during the sitting period.^[31] Three members participate in remote proceedings, including the first contribution in the Federation Chamber made via video link.^[32] Similar arrangements are agreed to in the Senate.^[33]

However, arrangements agreed between the Federal Parliament and ACT health officers enable parliamentarians from Victoria to attend parliament in person.^[34]

15 February

13th anniversary of the Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, (Lib., Cook, NSW) makes a ministerial statement to mark the 13th anniversary of the Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples. In his statement, he advises that while in previous years the annual Closing the Gap report has been delivered on this anniversary date, following the new National Agreement on Closing the Gap signed in July 2020, future reports will take place in the middle of the year.^[35] The Leader of the Opposition speaks in response.

The sitting of the Senate is suspended to enable senators to attend.

Gemma Black (born 1956) Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples, 2008, Gift commissioned by the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. Parliament House Art Collection, Department of Parliamentary Services, Canberra ACT.

Watch the ministerial statement

15 February

First Speech: Member for Groom

Garth Hamilton (Lib., Groom, Qld.) makes his first Speech in the House of Representatives.^[36]

He was elected at a 2020 by-election following the resignation of the sitting member, the Hon Dr John McVeigh (Lib.).

Garth Hamilton
Image source: Auspic
Watch Mr Hamilton’s first speech (17:31)

16 February

Allegations of sexual assault at Parliament House

In response to allegations that a staffer was sexually assaulted by a colleague at Parliament House in 2019, ^[37] the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, announces the establishment of two inquiries. The first, led by Celia Hammond (Lib., Curtin, WA) will examine workplace culture at Parliament House, while the second, led by Stephanie Foster (Deputy Secretary, PM&C) will provide advice on improving complaints processes and support for staffers reporting sexual assault.^[38]

The first review is subsequently incorporated into broader independent review of Parliament House’s workplace culture.^[39]

Charges are laid in the matter in August 2021.[40]

16 February

AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine approved

The TGA provisionally approves the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for use in Australia.[41] The first doses arrive at the month’s end.[42]

17 February

Remote participation: referral to Senate Procedure Committee

Senate President Scott Ryan (Lib., Vic.) refers to the Procedure Committee a request to ‘review the use of remote participation, including the process for approving its use.’[43] The rules were first adopted in August 2020, and re-adopted for subsequent sitting periods.

The Committee Chair, Senate Deputy President Sue Lines (ALP, WA), tables its report on 13 May 2021.

Scott Ryan
Image source: Auspic

18 February

Passage of Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Bill 2019

The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Bill 2019 passes both Houses of Parliament after vigorous debate. The Bill, which had originally been introduced in 2018 but lapsed with the prorogation of Parliament, merges the Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit Court of Australia into a new Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

The Bill receives Royal Assent on 1 March and enters into effect on 1 September 2021.

17 and 18 February

Resolutions and statements on family violence

The Senate and the House of Representatives pass resolutions marking the anniversary of the murder of Hannah Clarke and her children.[44] The Prime Minster and the Leader of the Opposition also make statements in remembrance.[45]

18 February

Statement regarding allegations of a sexual assault

Leader of the Opposition in the Senate Penny Wong (ALP, SA) introduces a motion to require the Defence Minister Linda Reynolds (Lib., WA) to make a statement regarding allegations of a sexual assault in her office.^[46] The motion is not passed. However, Defence Minister makes a statement by leave later that day.^[47] The Senate considers the Minister’s statement on the next sitting day.^[48]

Senator Linda Reynolds
Image source: Auspic

21 February

Vaccine rollout begins

Australia’s National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme begins in Sydney. Prime Minister Scott Morrison is among the first group of Australians to receive the vaccine.^[49]

Prime Minister Morrison and Jane Malysiak, the first recipient of the coronavirus vaccine in Australia.
Image source: Scott Morrison (Prime Minister), Twitter

23 February

Craig Kelly resigns from the Liberal Party

Craig Kelly advises the House of Representatives that he has resigned from the Liberal Party to sit as an Independent.^[50] In August he announces his appointment as leader of the United Australia Party.[51]

His departure from the Liberal Party reduces the Government’s majority, to holding 76 seats in the 151-seat chamber.

Craig Kelly
Image source: Auspic

1 March

Royal Commission into Aged Care final report tabled

The Final Report of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is tabled in Parliament.^[52] It includes 148 recommendations and calls for ‘fundamental reform of the aged care system’, with the Royal Commissioners arguing that ‘[p]eople receiving aged care deserved better.’^[53]

Image source: Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

2 March

International borders stay closed

The Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt (Lib., Flinders, Vic.), announces the extension of existing emergency determinations including restrictions on outbound international travel for a further three months.^[54]

3 March

Christian Porter press conference

Speaking at a media conference in Perth, Attorney‑General and Minister for Industrial Relations Christian Porter (Lib., Pearce, WA) reveals that he is the Minister at the centre of sexual assault allegations dating from 1988. He denies the allegations, saying they ‘simply did not happen’. He does not stand down from his ministerial positions but takes a period of leave.^[55]

Christian Porter
Image source: Auspic

5 March

Sex Discrimination Commissioner to lead review into Parliament’s workplace culture

The Minister for Finance, Simon Birmingham (Lib., SA) announces an independent review into Commonwealth Parliamentary workplaces, to be led by Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.^[56] The review will aim to ‘ensure all Commonwealth Parliamentary workplaces are safe and respectful and that our national Parliament reflects best practice in the prevention and handling of bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault.’^[57]

Kate Jenkins
Image source: VEOHRC, Wikimedia Commons
Read: the Independent review into Commonwealth Parliamentary workplaces - Terms of Reference

15 March

All state borders open

For the first time since COVID-19 border closures were implemented, all state borders are open, after WA opens its border to Victoria.^[58]

15 March

March 4 Justice

Thousands of people attend March 4 Justice rallies around Australia, calling for an end to gendered violence. Speakers at the rally outside Parliament House include Brittany Higgins, the former staffer whose allegations of sexual assault in the building were ‘the catalyst for much of the anger leading up to the protests’.^[59]

Both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition make statements in the House regarding the rallies.^[60]

Women’s March 4 Justice Canberra
Image source: AAP Mick Tsikas

15 March

Condolence motions for Sir Michael Somare

Before Question Time, the Prime Minister moves that the House:

… acknowledge the passing, on 26 February 2021, of Papua New Guinea Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare, and place on record its gratitude of his long-standing and respected relationship with Australia and tender its profound sympathy to his family in their bereavement.^[61]

Debate on the motion continues in the Federation Chamber on 16 March.^[62]

The Senate passes a similar motion, with all senators present later joining in a moment of silence.^[63]

Watch debate on the condolence motions in the House of Representatives and the Senate

16 March

Disallowance and Delegated legislation

The Senate Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation Committee tables the final report of its inquiry into the exemption of delegated legislation from parliamentary oversight.[64] The report notes that in 2020 ‘17.4% of delegated legislation was exempted from disallowance’, removing the opportunity for Parliament to examine and potentially veto it.[65] It makes 11 recommendations to better ensure delegated legislation is effectively scrutinised and ‘exempted from parliamentary oversight in only exceptional circumstances’.[66]

On 16 June, the Senate considers the report, adopting three recommendations.[67]

17 and 18 March

Condolence Motions for Chris Hurford

Condolence motions are moved in the House of Representatives and the Senate to mark the death in November 2020 of Chris Hurford. (The condolence motions were delayed to enable Mr Hurford’s family to attend.)

First elected as Member for Adelaide in 1969, he held the seat until resigning in 1987. He was a member of the Hawke ministry from 1983 to 1987, holding the portfolios for Housing and Construction (1983–84); Immigration and Ethnic Affairs (1984–87); and Community Services (1987). He also served as Minister Assisting the Treasurer (1983–87).^[68] After retiring from the Parliament, he represented Australia as Consul-General in New York.

Christopher Hurford
Image source: Auspic

18 March

Sports Grants report tabled

The Senate Select Committee on Administration of Sports Grants tables its final report.^[69] The majority report concludes that:

This inquiry has exposed an overt and organised practice by the government of inappropriately using Commonwealth grants for partisan political purposes …^[70]

The report also states that the committee ‘faced significant obstruction in its attempts to gather evidence’.^[71]

18 March

Portrait of Stephen Parry unveiled

The official portrait of former Senate President Stephen Parry, by artist Paul Newton, is unveiled. Mr Parry served as a Senator for Tasmania (2004–17) and as President of the Senate (2014–17).

Portrait of Stephen Parry by Paul Newton
Image source: Historic Memorials Collection, Department of Parliamentary Services

22 March

Statements on Indulgence on floods

Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, and Opposition Leader, Anthony Albanese, make statements on the devastating floods in New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland.^[72]

Watch the Statements on Indulgence

22 March

Multiple Birth Awareness Week

During members’ statements, Anika Wells (ALP, Lilley, Qld) raises awareness for Multiple Birth Awareness Week (21–28 March 2021) while holding her two fraternal twin sons. This year’s theme is testing for zygosity. Ms Wells notes:

It's important because … the health risks for multiple births increase tenfold for both mothers and babies. ^[73]

Standing orders in both the Senate and the House enable parliamentarians to bring an infant in their care into their respective Chamber. The House also permits female members to vote by proxy for most divisions if they are nursing an infant at the time of the Division.[74]

Anika Wells and her infant twins
Image source: DPS Broadcasting
Watch twins in the House (from 13:36)

28 March

JobKeeper ends

The JobKeeper Payment program ends. The scheme, which commenced 30 March 2020, provided a financial subsidy for businesses significantly affected by COVID-19.[75]

29 March

Ministry reshuffle

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, announces a reshuffle of his ministry. The new ministry sees the return to a then-record number of women (seven) in Cabinet, and the creation of a women’s Cabinet Taskforce.^[76]

Among other changes, Michaelia Cash (Lib., WA) replaces Christian Porter as Attorney‑General, while Peter Dutton (Lib., Dickson, Qld) replaces Linda Reynolds as Minister for Defence.

Michaelia Cash
Image source: Auspic

29 March

Brisbane lockdown

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announces a 3-day lockdown in Brisbane following four new locally-acquired cases of COVID-19. In response, other jurisdictions announce restrictions for travellers from either the Brisbane region or the entire state.^[77]

10 April

Gun salute in honour of the Duke of Edinburgh

Following the death of the Duke of Edinburgh,^[78] Prince Philip, on 9 April 2021, a 41-gun salute is performed at Parliament House in his honour.^[79]

19 April

Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide announced

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Darren Chester (NP, Gippsland, Vic.), and Attorney-General Michaelia Cash announce the establishment of a Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The Royal Commission is intended to complement the existing initiative to establish a permanent National Commission ‘to proactively deal with future issues’.^[80]

The Royal Commission is formally established on 8 July 2021, and will be led by Nick Kaldas, former Deputy Commissioner of the NSW Police Force. It is due to provide its final report by 15 June 2023.^[81]

Darren Chester
Image source: Auspic

23 April

Perth lockdown

WA Premier Mark McGowan, announces a three-day lockdown for Perth and the Peel region, after the emergence of two COVID-19 cases.^[82] Other jurisdictions subsequently impose restrictions for travellers from the affected regions.^[83]

27 April

Passenger flights from India paused

Following the ‘very significant’ outbreak of a new strain of COVID-19 (Delta) in India, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces that direct passenger flights from India to Australia will be paused until 15 May 2021. Outgoing travel is also limited. He also announces an initial assistance package to support India’s management of the outbreak.^[84] Government-chartered repatriation flights from India resume in May.[85]

Qantas aircraft Sydney airport
Image source: DS28, Wikimedia Commons

3 May

National COVID-19 Commission Advisory Board

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces that the National COVID-19 Advisory Board, established in March 2020, has concluded its work. The Board provided ‘a real-time business perspective on critical aspects of our COVID-19 response’ during ‘the emergency phase’ of the pandemic.^[86]

9 May

120th anniversary of first sitting of the Commonwealth Parliament

The day marks the 120th anniversary of the first sitting of the Commonwealth Parliament in Melbourne’s Exhibition Building—the city’s only building able to accommodate the 12,000 invited guests.[87] With senators and members assembled under the great dome, the Duke of Cornwall and York (later King George V) declared the Parliament open, his voice ringing ‘clear through the building’.[88] The Argus declared the opening ‘A Magnificent Demonstration’ and ‘A Masterpiece of Organisation’: 

[T]he legislative machinery of the   Commonwealth was yesterday set in motion … The worthiest of Australia were there … and every heart beat high with pride and with hope.[89]

The Parliament reconvened at the Victorian Parliament House later in the day and elected two South Australians, Richard Baker and Frederick Holder were elected as the inaugural President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Regular parliamentary sessions commenced the following day.

It was not until 1927 that the Parliament met in Canberra.^[90]

Photograph of the ‘Opening of the First Parliament of the Commonwealth’, exhibition Building, Melbourne 9 May 1901
Image source: Museums Victoria

10 May

Presiding Officers’ statement: Parliament House access and operations

The Presiding Officers announce a further easing of COVID-19 safety measures at Parliament House with the opening of outdoor sporting facilities and self-service catering permitted for events.^[91] Visits by the public continue to be managed through booked tours.

10 May

Commemoration of the London Blitz

The Presiding Officers unveil an exhibition commemorating the 80th anniversary of the final bombing of London during the London Blitz. At the heart of the exhibition are relics salvaged from the bomb-damaged Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey which were a gift in 1942 from the British Government.

British High Commissioner, Vicki Treadwell, with Speaker Tony Smith, Senate President Scott Ryan and exhibition curator Tania Zora at the opening of the Blitz exhibition.
Image source: Auspic
About the exhibition

11 May

Parliamentary Operations: House of Representatives

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Tony Smith (Lib., Casey, Vic.) makes a statement informing members of COVID-19 arrangements in the Chamber and Federation Chamber for the Budget sittings. He observes that for ‘the first time since 5 March 2020, the full membership of the House can once again be accommodated within the chamber at one time’.[92]

Tony Smith
Image Source: Auspic

11 May

Condolence motions for the Duke of Edinburgh

In the House of Representatives and the Senate, condolence motions pay tribute to Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Each chamber passed motions addressing Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, expressing sympathy and giving thanks for ‘a remarkable life’.^[93]

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, describes ’the Prince’s lifelong support of the Queen as an exemplar of a life of service’.^[94]

The Duke of Edinburgh
Image source: NASA/Paul E Alers, Wikimedia Commons
Watch the condolence motions in the House and the Senate

11-12 May

Condolence motions for Andrew Peacock

Condolence motions in the House of Representatives and the Senate pay tribute to Andrew Peacock, who died on 16 April 2021.^[95] He served as the Member for Kooyong (Vic.) from 1966 to 1994, as a Minister, Leader of the Opposition and, after leaving Parliament, as an ambassador to the United States of America.^[96]

Andrew Peacock
Image source: Auspic

11 May

Two senators cross the floor

Senators Matt Canavan (NP, Qld) and Gerard Rennick (Lib., Qld) cross the floor to vote in favour of a motion proposed by Senator Malarndirri McCarthy (ALP, NT) in relation to assistance for Australians in India. The question was agreed to.^[97]

On 13 May 2021 Senators Canavan and Rennick again crossed the floor to support a motion on the same subject moved by Senator Murray Watt (ALP, Qld). That question was also agreed to.^[98]

11 May

2021 Budget

The Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg (Lib., Kooyong, Vic.), delivers the 2021 budget, his third.

He states:

… we have come so far since the height of the pandemic. … But it has come at a significant and unavoidable cost. The COVID‑19 recession will see our deficit reach $161 billion this year …

But Australia is now well on the road to recovery. … jobs are coming back. The economy is coming back. Australia is coming back.[99]

In his budget reply speech on 13 May, the Leader of the Opposition, Anthony Albanese, states:

… we can do so much better … than merely coming back, rather than building back stronger. …

This budget offers a low-growth, low‑productivity and low-wage future, and a trillion dollars of debt. Is this really the best we can aspire to?^[100]

Josh Frydenberg
Image source: Auspic
Watch the Treasurer’s budget speech (from 19:30)

11 May

Assisted dying: Resolution from the ACT Legislative Assembly

The Speaker of the House of Representatives presents a copy of an ACT Legislative Assembly resolution on the restoration of territory rights regarding voluntary assisted dying.[101]

12 May

Protesters block roads to Parliament House

Ten protesters are taken into custody after an attempt to block road access to Parliament House. The climate change activists linked to the Extinction Rebellion movement parked trucks across several roads leading to the building. The protesters aimed to draw attention to the lack of environmental focus in the 2021 budget.

Extinction Rebellion members return to Parliament House in August, with protesters charged with property damage and trespass.[102]

13 May

Moderna vaccine deal

The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, announces that Australia has finalised a contract with Moderna for the purchase of 25 million vaccines. These vaccines are to form the ‘foundation of a booster and variant strategy’ for Australia.^[103]

13 May

Parliamentary Operations: The Senate

The Senate adopts the Standing Committee on Procedure’s report recommendations[104] to remain in effect until 2 September 2021. Use of remote participation remains:

… strictly limited to enable senators to participate in Senate proceedings while they are prevented from physically attending the Senate because of COVID-19 related travel restrictions, quarantine requirements or personal health advice.[105]

The revised rules include a new process for approving the use of remote participation, and principles for remote participation at estimates hearings.

13 May

Report on Question Time

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Procedure tables its report A window on the House: practices and procedures relating to Question Time.^[106] The report’s 11 recommendations include: banning questions about ‘alternative approaches’; requiring the Prime Minister to address a question before deferring to another minister; extra disciplinary powers for the Speaker; and new time limits for questions and answers.^[107]

House of Representatives
Image source: Australian House of Representatives, Twitter

24 May

Cyber-attack on Parliament revealed

The President of the Senate, Scott Ryan reveals during a Senate Estimates hearing that the Parliament was ‘the subject of malicious cyber activity’ on 26 March 2021. The cyber-attack, while unsuccessful, caused ‘significant inconvenience’.^[108]

26 May

Presiding Officers’ statement: new COVID-19 precautions

The Presiding Officers release a statement regarding travel to Victoria due to changing border entry arrangements in NSW and the ACT. Parliamentarians and staff are advised to remain in Canberra if they are able to.^[109]

27 May

Victorian lockdown

Victoria’s Acting Premier James Merlino announces a state-wide seven-day lockdown.^[110] This follows reports of 11 new COVID-19 cases, taking the Victorian cluster to 26.^[111] The outbreak originated from a hotel quarantine leak in SA.^[112]

In response, SA closes its border with Victoria, while other jurisdictions impose restrictions on travellers arriving from Victoria.^[113]

On 2 June the lockdown is extended for a further week in Melbourne, while restrictions are eased in regional Victoria.^[114]

27 May

House of Representatives: Agreement for parliamentarians to contribute remotely

The Leader of the House Peter Dutton presents an Agreement for members to contribute remotely to parliamentary proceedings. [115] Five members will participate via video link during the following week’s sittings.[116]

27 May

Infant in the Chamber

During members’ statements on 27 May, Patrick Gorman (ALP, Perth, WA) rises to speak on the issue of women in parliament while holding his infant daughter – whom the Deputy Speaker jocularly dubs ‘the junior member for Perth’.[117]

Patrick Gorman with his daughter Ruby
Image source: DPS Broadcasting

28 May

New acquisitions exhibition: contemporary identity and land

From May to November 2021, Parliament House hosts an exhibition of recently acquired artworks.

Spanning paintings, objects and digital media, this selection draws on the various ways artists respond to and reflect on how identity and a sense of connection are forged in landscape and place.

Image source: The hunt of the Thylacine (detail), 2020, Nicole O’Loughlin
About the exhibition

3 June

National lockdown framework introduced

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, and Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud (NP, Maranoa, Qld) announce the creation of a national lockdown framework. Under the framework, the Commonwealth will provide a temporary COVID-19 disaster payment to those who have lost income during a lockdown of more than seven days.^[118]

Payments under the scheme cease as each state and territory reaches 80% of its population aged 16 and over fully vaccinated.[119]

4 June

Foster Report released

Following its completion on 25 May 2021,^[120] the Minister for Finance, Simon Birmingham, announces the public release of the Foster Report.^[121] The report by Stephanie Foster, Deputy Secretary of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C), reviews the arrangements in place for responding to serious incidents in parliamentary workplaces.

The report’s ten recommendations include the creation of an independent complaints mechanism for serious incidents, and the logging of after‑hours access to parliamentarians’ offices.^[122]

On 26 July the Prime Minister and the Minister for Finance announce that the government will accept all of the report’s recommendations. Accordingly, an independent complaints mechanism will be established ‘within six weeks’ and training for parliamentarians and their staff will be rolled out from September. A public register will be created to record which parliamentarians have completed the training.^[123]

Image source: PM&C

11 June

50^th anniversary of Neville Bonner’s appointment to the Senate

Today marks the 50^th anniversary of Neville Bonner’s appointment to the Senate, the first Indigenous member of an Australian parliament.^[124] 

Bonner was chosen by the Queensland Parliament in June 1971 to fill a casual vacancy caused by the resignation of Senator Annabelle Rankin. Bonner won the seat in his own right in the general election held the following year and continued to represent Queensland as a Senator until 1983.

After politics, he held a series of prominent positions including as an ABC director and a patron of World Vision and Amnesty International. Deeply proud of his role as a trailblazer, he continued to be a strong advocate for Indigenous rights. He was named Australian of the Year in 1979 and appointed an AO in 1984.

To mark the anniversary an exhibition is held at Parliament House and Professor Megan Davis delivers a Senate Occasional Lecture.

Neville Bonner AO
Image source: National Archives of Australia

18 June

Condolence motions for John Raymond Martyr

The Speaker informs the House of Representatives of the death of former parliamentarian John Raymond Martyr.

He was the Member for Swan (WA) from 1975 to 1978 and Senator for WA from 1981 to 1983.^[125]

John Raymond Martyr
Image source: Auspic

21 June

Nationals leadership spill

Following a leadership spill, Barnaby Joyce (NP, New England, NSW) returns as Leader of The Nationals, replacing Michael McCormack (NP, Riverina, NSW).^[126] He is sworn in as Deputy Prime Minister the following day.^[127]

Barnaby Joyce
Image source: Auspic

21 June

Operations of the Parliament

An agreement is adopted for remote participation for the sittings of the House of Representatives from Monday, 21 June 2021 to Thursday, 24 June 2021.[128] This enables Prime Minister Scott Morrison to participate in proceedings from the Lodge while quarantining after official travel overseas.^[129]

21 June

Man arrested with weapon at parliament

Additional security measures are put in place at Parliament House after the arrest of an armed man making threats outside the building.^[130]

On 28 July 2021 the man’s lawyer entered pleas of not guilty by reason of mental impairment to charges of possessing an offensive weapon with intent and threatening to kill.^[131] On 26 August 2021 the man is granted bail and is to live under house arrest.^[132]

23 June

Border closures following Sydney COVID-19 outbreak

In response to a COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney other jurisdictions close their borders to NSW or impose travel restrictions.^[133]

24 June

Changes to procedure in the Senate

The Senate passes a motion limiting the types of motions that may be dealt with as formal. The motion also creates a daily 30-minute opportunity for senators to make two-minute statements. The new temporary orders have effect until the last sitting day of 2021.^[134]

The Greens, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, Jacqui Lambie Network and Independent Senator Rex Patrick (Ind., SA), oppose the changes, which Senator Rachel Siewert (AG, WA) describes as ‘an act of bastardry by the two major parties.’^[135]

25 June

Sydney lockdown

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announces stay-at-home orders of at least one week for people who live or work in four Sydney local council areas.^[136]

The following day she announces a two-week lockdown for all of Greater Sydney.^[137] The duration and coverage of the lockdown is progressively extended over days and weeks following.[138]

On 11 July Victoria closes its borders to all of NSW and the ACT.[139]

On 27 September the NSW Premier announces the path out of the lockdown, with easing of restrictions at the 80% double dose vaccination target.^[140]

27 June

New ministry announced

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, announces changes to the ministry prompted by the recent change in the leadership of The Nationals. Among other changes, Andrew Gee (NP, Calare, NSW) joins and Bridget McKenzie re-joins the Cabinet. The new Cabinet includes eight women, the highest number to date.

Susan McDonald (NP, Qld) is appointed Envoy for Northern Australia.

The new ministry is sworn in on 2 July 2021.^[141]

Andrew Gee
Image source: Auspic

27 June

Darwin lockdown

The Northern Territory (NT) government announces a two-day lockdown for the Darwin area.^[142] The lockdown comes after COVID-19 cases in the Territory are identified, linked to a mine worker believed to have contracted the virus at a Brisbane quarantine hotel.^[143]

28 June

Perth lockdown

WA Premier Mark McGowan announces a four-day lockdown for Perth and the Peel region. The lockdown follows cases linked to the Sydney outbreak.^[144]

29 June

Queensland lockdown

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announces a three-day lockdown for South-East Queensland, Townsville, Magnetic Island and Palm Island after cases of COVID-19 community transmission in the state.^[145]

30 June

Alice Springs lockdown

The NT government announces a three-day lockdown for Alice Springs after a mine worker in SA and his family tested positive for COVID-19.^[146]

2 July

International passenger arrivals cut

National Cabinet agrees to reduce international passenger arrival caps by 50 percent to manage pressure on quarantine facilities caused by the Delta variant.

Since the beginning of the pandemic there have been globally 182 million cases and nearly four million deaths; Australia has recorded 30,685 confirmed cases and 910 deaths.[147]

7 July

Man charged after refusing to wear mask at Parliament House

A Sydney man is arrested and charged with breaching ACT public health orders after refusing to wear a mask while visiting Parliament House.^[148]

13 July

Federal government COVID-19 support package announced

The Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announce an upgraded national response to COVID-19 outbreaks that result in extended lockdowns. The new package includes increased weekly payments for affected households and support for businesses. It will apply nationally to any state or territory experiencing a lockdown lasting longer than three weeks.^[149]

13 July

Speaker Tony Smith to retire at the next election

Speaker of the House of Representatives Tony Smith announces he will not be contesting the next federal election.^[150] 

Smith was first elected to the House of Representatives for Casey in 2001 and became Speaker in August 2015.

Tony Smith
Image source: Auspic

15 July

Lockdown in Victoria

The Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, announces a five-day lockdown for the state.^[151] The lockdown comes after the emergence of two COVID-19 clusters in Melbourne linked to the Sydney outbreak.^[152]

On 20 July 2021 the lockdown is extended by one week.^[153]

19 July

Politicians quarantining in Canberra ahead of August sitting period

Federal parliamentarians from hotspots begin quarantining in Canberra, two weeks out from the sitting period. The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, is quarantining at the Lodge and is permitted to hold his press conferences outside with attendees to be fully vaccinated, wearing masks and physical distancing. Conditions apply for persons required to attend Parliament House during their 14-day quarantine period. ^[154]

Mid July onwards

COVID-19 border restrictions

States and territories progressively implement internal travel restrictions and border closures in response to growing clusters of COVID-19 outbreaks. Tasmania is the only state without quarantine restrictions.^[155]

20 July

Lockdown in SA

The SA Premier, Steven Marshall, announces a one-week lockdown for the state, after a fifth COVID-19 case is detected.^[156]

21 July

Lockdown in regional NSW

The Deputy NSW Premier, John Barilaro, announces a one-week lockdown for the Orange, Blayney and Cabonne shires, after a local case linked to a delivery driver from Sydney.^[157]

22 July

Netting and fake cats used to deter birds from nesting on APH forecourt

Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) places netting and cut-outs of cats on the foliage on the Parliament House forecourt in an attempt to deter birds from nesting there.^[158]

23 July

Pfizer vaccine approved for 12- to 15-year-olds

The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, announces that the TGA has approved the Pfizer vaccine for use in children aged 12 to 15. It is the first vaccine to be approved for use in Australians under the age of 16.^[159]

26 July

Presiding Officers’ statement: arrangements for parliamentary sitting weeks in August and September

The Presiding Officers outline the arrangements for the operation of Parliament House from 2 August to 3 September 2021. The arrangements aim to minimise non-essential activity at Parliament House while allowing the scheduled sittings to proceed. Among other measures, the building will be closed to the public and many parliamentarians will participate remotely.^[160]

28 July

Increase to COVID-19 support payment

The Government announces a new, higher, level of payment for workers whose income is affected by COVID-19 lockdowns, including those receiving an income support payment through the social security system.^[161]

30 July

Four-phase plan outlined

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, announces a four-phase plan, agreed by National Cabinet, for reopening Australia. Moving from the current ‘suppression’ phase to the next phase, ‘transition’, which involves ‘low level restrictions’, will require 70% of the eligible population to be fully vaccinated. Moving to the following ‘consolidation’ phase, when domestic and outbound international travel restrictions are eased for those who are vaccinated, will require 80% of the eligible population to be vaccinated. The final phase, for which a vaccine target has not been set, includes fully opening international borders.^[162]

31 July

Lockdown for southeast Queensland

The Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, announces a three-day lockdown for southeast Queensland after seven cases of COVID‑19 are detected.^[163] On 2 August 2021 the lockdown is extended for a further five days.^[164]

31 July

Arrangements for southeast Queensland MPs

Federal parliamentarians from southeast Queensland fly to Canberra ahead of the parliamentary sitting period and before the lockdown commences. While in Canberra they will be required to abide by strict COVID-19 health protocols.^[165]

1 August

Further overseas travel restrictions

The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, amends the legislative instrument restricting Australians’ travel overseas, removing an exemption for Australians who ordinarily reside in another country. After returning to Australia to visit, they will now be required to apply for an exemption to leave the country. The change aims to reduce the pressure on Australia’s quarantine system. ^[166]

3 August

Agreement for members to contribute remotely

Minister Keith Pitt (NP, Hinkler, Qld) presents to the House an Agreement for Members to contribute remotely to Parliamentary proceedings.[167] Forty one members participate remotely over the sitting.[168] The Senate similarly implements its revised rules for remote participation; and some 25 senators participated in proceedings via video link.[169]

4 August

Federation Chamber hiatus

The Speaker informs the House of Representatives that the Federation Chamber will not meet until 18 October 2021 as COVID-19 restrictions prevented a number of members of the Speaker’s Panel attending sittings.[170]

5 August

Closing the Gap ministerial statement

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, gives the annual ‘Closing the Gap’ ministerial statement, which is the first since the 2020 National Agreement on Closing the Gap. He says:

On life expectancy, we're doing better but we're not where we want to be. On getting kids into preschool, we're tracking well. On incarceration rates, we're not achieving what we need to. On youth detention, we are making progress, but the data tells us we still have a long way to go. … We have many years of hard work ahead of us, as we have behind us. [171]

On the same day, the Prime Minister and the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Ken Wyatt (Lib., Hasluck, WA) announce a $378.6 million redress scheme for living members of the Stolen Generations who were removed from their families as children in the NT, the ACT, and the Jervis Bay Territory.[172]

5 August

Lockdown for Victoria

The Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, announces a one-week lockdown for the state.[173] The announcement follows the emergence of two new COVID‑19 clusters in Victoria.[174]

The lockdown is lifted for regional Victoria on 10 August 2021.[175]

On 11 August 2021 the lockdown in Melbourne is extended for one week.[176]

On 16 August 2021 the lockdown in Melbourne is extended for another two weeks.[177]

5 August

Lockdown for Hunter and Upper Hunter regions

The Hunter and Upper Hunter regions of NSW enter a one-week lockdown after COVID-19 cases are detected in the area.[178]

On 12 August the lockdown is extended for one week. [179]

5 August

National Cabinet FOI judgment

The Administrative Appeals Tribunal rules that National Cabinet documents should be made public, after finding that National Cabinet is not a committee of the federal Cabinet. The appeal was brought by Senator Rex Patrick, who sought National Cabinet documents under freedom of information legislation.[180]

7 August

Lockdown for Armidale area

The Armidale area enters a one-week lockdown after COVID-19 is detected there.[181]

8 August

Lockdown for Cairns and Yarrabah

The Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, announces a three-day lockdown for the Cairns and Yarrabah local government areas after a taxi driver in Cairns tested positive for COVID-19.[182]

9 August

Moderna vaccine approved by the TGA

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, and the Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, announce that the TGA has approved the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for use in Australia. The first doses of the vaccine are expected to arrive in September.[183]

9 August

Lockdowns in NSW North Coast and Tamworth areas

The NSW North Coast and the Tamworth area enter a one-week lockdown after cases are detected there.[184]

10 August

Protesters vandalise Parliament House

Eight Extinction Rebellion protesters are arrested after a protest at Parliament House. Protesters used red spray paint to graffiti ‘Duty of Care’ onto the marble pillars at the front of the building.[185]

10 August

House condemns comments by George Christensen

Following comments by George Christensen (NP, Dawson, Qld) in the House of Representatives, the House passes a motion which:

condemns the comments of the Member for Dawson prior to Question Time designed to use our national Parliament to spread misinformation and undermine the actions of Australians to defeat COVID-19 …[186]

George Christensen
Image source: Auspic

11 August

Lockdown for Dubbo, NSW

The NSW Government announces stay-at-home orders for parts of Western NSW for one week, increasing the number of parts of the state affected by restrictions.^[187]

12 August

ACT enters lockdown

Chief Minister Andrew Barr announces a seven day lockdown for the ACT as a positive COVID-19 case in the Territory who has been infectious whilst in the community, and positive wastewater detections’.[188] The lockdown is subsequently extended. Restrictions begin to be lifted from 15 October.[189]

12 August

Presiding Officer’s statement on building operations at Parliament House

The Presiding Officers announce that the building will be closed for the duration of the ACT lockdown to all but staff ‘necessary to maintain critical building functions’. This includes ‘parliamentarians and their essential staff being permitted to travel to Parliament House from their accommodation and back again to continue their work’.^[190]

14 August

Lockdown for regional NSW

Regional NSW enters a seven-day lockdown,^[191] with the lockdown extended in iterations.

On 11 September the lockdown ends for regional communities that have recorded zero COVID-19 cases for at least 14 days.^[192]

15 August

One million Pfizer vaccine doses from Poland

Australia purchases vaccines from the Polish government. The Prime Minister announces that these will be targeted at Australians aged 20 to 39 years of age, with ‘a million doses of hope on their way’.^[193]

16 August

Lockdown in the NT

Parts of the NT including Darwin, Palmerston and Katherine enter a three-day lockdown.^[194]

On 19 August the lockdown in Katherine is extended by 24 hours.^[195]

20 August

Presiding Officer’s statement on building operations at Parliament House

The Presiding Offers announce further measures to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission that will be in place from the commencement of the 23 August 2021 sitting fortnight, notably nurses undertaking temperature checks at all entrances of Parliament House.^[196]

These measures remained in place for the October^[197] and November^[198] sitting fortnights.

21 August

Lockdown in regional Victoria

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews initially announces an eleven-day lockdown in regional Victoria following a spike in cases.^[199]

The regional Victoria lockdown ends on 10 September, apart from Shepparton.^[200]

23 August

Motions on Afghanistan

Motions in the Senate and House of Representatives noting the ‘urgent and dangerous’ situation in Afghanistan and acknowledging the role of Australian service personnel and officials are debated.^[201]

24 August

Statues of Lyons, Tangney and Bonner for Parliamentary Triangle

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, and Assistant Minster for Regional Development and Territories, Nola Marino (Lib., Forrest, WA) announce $1.25 million for two new sculptures of the first women elected to the House of Representatives and the Senate, Enid Lyons and Dorothy Tangney respectively and the first Indigenous Australian elected to Parliament, Neville Bonner. The statues will be placed near Old Parliament House, with the Prime Minister stating ‘[i]t’s important we never forget those who shaped our history so that ours and future generations are always reminded of the sacrifices they made and the courage they showed’.^[202]

25 August

Fast passage of Bill

The Foreign Intelligence Legislation Amendment Bill 2021 (the Bill) passed both houses in two days and one sitting. The Bill was introduced and read a first and second time, referred to and reported on by the Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security and read a third time in the House on this day. On 26 August the Bill went through all three readings in the Senate and thereby passed both chambers.^[203]

29 August

Death of Senator Alex Gallacher

On 30 August Senate President Scott Ryan announces the death of Senator Alex Gallacher (ALP, SA) on the day before and the Senate adjourns early.^[204]

On 1 September and 29 November 2021, condolence motions in the House of Representatives^[205] and Senate^[206] respectively, pay tribute to Alex Gallacher. (The condolence motion in the Senate was ‘deferred until more senators could attend, given recent public health restrictions’.)^[207]

Senator Gallacher served as a senator for SA from 2010 and was Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade References and Economics References committees.^[208]

Alex Gallacher
Image source: Auspic
Watch the condolence motions in the Senate (15:55) and the House (18:02)

30 August

Greens war powers motion

Senator Jordon Steele-John (AG, WA) explains that his private senators Bill—Defence Amendment (Parliamentary Approval of Overseas Service) Bill 2020—would require a vote of both houses of Parliament before Australian personnel can be deployed overseas.^[209]

31 August

PM announces vaccine dose swap with Singapore

Australia and Singapore agree to a Pfizer vaccine swap, with Australia to receive 500,000 Singaporean doses now and Singapore to receive 500,000 Australian doses in December.^[210]

On 7 September 2021 Greg Hunt announces the securing of an additional 1.7 million doses from Singapore and the United Kingdom.^[211]

31 August

Anti-lockdown protesters arrested at Parliament House

An anti-lockdown protest was held at Parliament House, attended by approximately twenty people. Three people were arrested across two protests held on the same day, the second one being at Government House.^[212]

1 September

70th Anniversary of the ANZUS alliance

On the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, moves a motion which is debated by major party leaders and the Minister and Shadow Minister for Defence. The Prime Minister reiterated a reflection on the alliance by former Prime Minister Robert Menzies:

There is a contract between Australia and America. It is a contract based on the utmost goodwill, the utmost good faith and unqualified friendship. Each of us will stand by it. ^[213]

ANZUS logo
Image source: Archives New Zealand, Wikimedia Commons

3 September

Vaccine deal with UK

Australia and the United Kingdom agree to a Pfizer dose sharing partnership, with Australia to receive four million Pfizer doses from UK supplies in September and Australia sending four million Pfizer doses to the UK in late 2021. The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, said ‘[m]illions of Australians will now be able to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated sooner…’. ^[214]

4 September

Moderna vaccine approved for 12- to 17-year-olds

The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, announces that the TGA has approved the Moderna vaccine for use in children aged 12 to 17.^[215]

5 September

Prime Minister’s Father’s Day exemption

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, spends Fathers’ Day weekend in Sydney with his family before returning to Canberra on the Monday under an exemption granted by ACT Health due to his essential worker status. Under the level three stay-at-home order, Mr Morrison is subject to conditions including having frequent COVID-19 tests and restricting his movements.^[216]

5 September

Parliament kitchen provides COVID-19 relief

Since early in the pandemic DPS has been preparing 125 additional meals for in-need people in the Ainslie community via the Vinnies Blue Door drop-in centre. Mr Barnie van Wyk, the Chief Executive of St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra-Goulburn, was thankful for the more than 45,000 meals produced:

We are so grateful to the team at Parliament House led by David Learmonth for reaching out to provide a lifeline for the many vulnerable Canberrans that depend on our service. ^[217]

6 September

Senator Rachel Siewert resigns

Senator Rachel Siewert resigns from the Senate, having delivered her valedictory speech on 25 August 2021.^[218]

Senator Siewert was first elected to the Senate as a Senator for Western Australia in 2004 and re‑elected in 2010 and 2016. She served as a member of the Community Affairs committees since 2008 and became the References Committee Chair in 2009.^[219]

Rachel Siewert
Image source: Auspic
Watch Senator Siewert’s valedictory speech (from 17:04)

14 September onwards

Lockdowns for regional NSW and regional Victoria

Regional centres in both NSW and Victoria go in and out of lockdown as COVID-19 cases arise.

23 September

Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS)

As recommended in the Foster Review, ‘a new independent workplace complaints mechanism … [for] staff and parliamentarians who work in Commonwealth Parliamentary workplaces’ is established:

The PWSS will be able to review complaints made about serious Parliamentary workplace incidents which are alleged to have occurred since the start of this Parliamentary term, and will be overseen by Parliamentary Service Commissioner Mr Peter Woolcott AO, to ensure its independence and confidentiality. ^[220]

1 October

Ministry reshuffle

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, announces a reshuffle of his ministry following Christian Porter’s resignation from the front bench.^[221]

Alex Hawke (Lib., Mitchell, NSW) is promoted to Cabinet, Angus Taylor (Lib., Hume, NSW) takes on the Industry portfolio, Melissa Price (Lib., Durack, WA) adds science and technology to her responsibilities, Ben Morton (Lib., Tangney, WA) becomes Special Minister of State and Tim Wilson (Lib., Goldstein, Vic.) is promoted to Assistant Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions reduction.^[222]

8 October

Vaccine status determines quarantine requirements ahead of October sitting period

ACT Health revises its guidelines so that only unvaccinated federal parliamentarians and staff are required to isolate for 14 days. Those who are fully vaccinated will not be required to isolate; however, their movements may be restricted based on where they travelled in the 14 days prior to arriving in Canberra.^[223]

11 October

Pop-up Pfizer vaccination hub at Parliament House

ACT Health administers Pfizer vaccines to building occupants via its vaccination hub in Parliament House. A follow up vaccination hub is held on 1 November 2021.^[224] 

13 October

Senator Scott Ryan resigns

Senator Scott Ryan resigns from his position as President of the Senate and as a senator for Victoria.

Senator Ryan was first elected in 2007 and served continuously since. He was elected as the President of the Senate on 13 November 2017.^[225] As provided for in the Parliamentary Presiding Officers Act 1965 (s. 3), he continues to exercise the President’s powers and functions until a replacement is chosen by the Senate.

Scott Ryan
Image source: Auspic

15 October

Tasmanian lockdown

Tasmania’s southern region, including its capital Hobart, go into a three-day lockdown due to an escapee from hotel quarantine.[226]

18 October

Operations of the Parliament: agreement to participate remotely

Luke Howarth (Lib., Petrie, Qld) presents to the House of Representatives an agreement for remote participation.[227] However, while some members are absent due to COVID-19 restrictions, the sitting fortnight has, ‘at least 106 members attending each day’.[228]

18 October

Extinction Rebellion stage climate protests

Climate protests are held outside Parliament House every day of the sitting week. Organised by Extinction Rebellion, protesters coordinate costumes (Pikachu, koala and coal) and props (a pram) each day.^[229]

18 October

Senator Slade Brockman elected President

A ballot is held in the Senate to fill the vacancy of Senate President. Slade Brockman (Lib., WA) is elected, receiving 45 votes to Mehreen Faruqi’s (AG, Vic.) 7 votes. ^[230]

The Governor-General authorises Senator Brockman to administer the oath or affirmation of allegiance to senators.^[231]

In his first speech, the President declared:

For as long as I hold this position, I will act to defend the interests of senators and the Senate itself. Whilst a diverse range of perspectives are represented in this chamber, I will treat each of you as duly elected and equal representatives of your states. I will take your arguments on their merits and seek to act impartially at all times. ^[232]

Slade Brockman
Image source: Auspic
Watch the President’s first speech

18 October

A new senator for WA

Senator Dorinda Cox (AG, WA) takes her seat in the Senate.

Senator Cox was chosen by the Parliament of WA to fill the casual vacancy created by the resignation of Rachel Siewert.^[233]

A Yamatji-Noongar woman, Senator Cox becomes WA’s first female Aboriginal Senator. On 19 October 2021, a smoking ceremony was held for Senator Cox at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra, and she made her first speech.^[234]

Senator Dorinda Cox
Image source: Auspic
Watch Senator Cox’s first speech (from 17:00)

18 October

A new senator for SA

Senator Karen Grogan (ALP, SA) takes her seat in the Senate.

Senator Grogan was chosen by the Parliament of SAa to fill the casual vacancy created by the passing of Alex Gallacher.^[235]

Senator Grogan makes her first speech on 20 October 2021.^[236]

Senator Karen Grogan
Image source: Auspic
Watch Senator Grogan’s first speech (from 17:06)

18 October

ACT hotspot status ceases

The Australian Government Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly, announces that the Commonwealth hotspot declaration in the ACT will cease at 11.59 pm.^[237]

18 October

Resolution regarding Independent Parliamentary Workplace Complaints Mechanism

The House of Representatives resolves that the Committee of Privileges and Members’ Interests consider any reports referred by the Parliamentary Services Commissioner to the Speaker regarding a member not cooperating with a review under the complaints mechanism.^[238]

A similar resolution is agreed to by the Senate on the following day.^[239]

18 October

Tributes to Sir David Amess MP

The House of Representatives pays tribute to long-serving British House of Commons MP David Amess who was murdered at a constituency meeting.[240] The motion, moved by Leader of the House Peter Dutton, pays tribute to Sir David’s life of service, condemns the murder and expresses sympathy to his family and colleagues.[241]

Debate on the motion is referred to the Federation Chamber and carried in the House on 20 October.[242]

18-19 October

Parliamentary departments’ Annual Reports 2020-21

DPS, the Senate, the House of Representatives and the Parliamentary Budget Office present annual reports.^[243]

20 October

Australia reaches 70% fully vaccinated milestone

The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, announces that Australia has passed the 70% double dosed vaccination rate for the 16 plus population.^[244]

20 October

Helen Haines in the Senate for introduction of federal integrity Bill

Senator Rex Patrick introduces the Australian Federal Integrity Commission Bill 2021 in the Senate whilst Helen Haines (Ind., Indi, Vic.) who led the drafting and refinement of the Bill watches on.^[245]

Watch Senator Patrick’s second reading speech

21 October

Anniversary of the national apology to victims of and survivors of institutional child sexual abuse

Prime Minister Scott Morrison moves a motion commemorating the third anniversary of the national apology to the survivors and victims of institutional child sexual abuse. Mr Morrison concludes his remarks by stating:

This parliament has heard you and each year, and each day we will continue to remind you that you are heard, that you are listened to and that you are not alone.^[246]

The Leader of the Opposition also speaks on the motion and concludes by stating:

Let’s get this right for the sake of survivors and their loved ones, for the future of all of us, as a society and a nation, and for the memories of those who never got to hear the words ‘We believe you.^[247]

Watch Statements by the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader (from 9:31)

22 October

Victoria exits lockdown

Following an earlier announcement by the Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, COVID-19 related restrictions ease across Victoria.^[248]

25 October

New House record: private members’ Bills presented

Nine private members’ Bills are presented to the House of Representatives during private members’ business—the highest number ever presented in a single sitting.[249]

26 October

Net zero emissions by 2050

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Angus Taylor, release Australia’s Long Term Emissions Reduction Plan. The Prime Minister states, ‘Australia now has a target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, and we have a clear plan for achieving it’. ^[250]

Image source: Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

29 October

Presiding Officers’ statement on building operations at Parliament House

The Presiding Officers announce an easing of restrictions in place at Parliament House including a gradual return to the building by staff and the opening of sporting facilities. However, Parliament House will remain closed to the public until the Parliament rises for the year on 3 December.^[251]

1 November

ACT eases interstate travel restrictions

Following an earlier announcement by Chief Minister Andrew Barr, fully vaccinated interstate residents in, and travellers from, NSW and Victoria can enter the ACT without isolating.^[252]

12 November

Presiding Officers’ statement on building operations and the next sitting period

The Presiding Officers announce changes to COVID-19 measures at Parliament House following the ACT’s lifting of certain restrictions. Masks remain mandatory for the final sitting fortnight.^[253]

12 November

John Alexander announces his retirement

John Alexander (Lib., Bennelong, NSW) announces his intention to leave Parliament at the next election, saying:

Serving Bennelong has been an incredible honour and I must thank the people of Bennelong who have put their trust in me for the last 11 years.^[254]

Alexander was first elected to the Parliament in 2010, but resigned from Parliament in November 2017, as one of several parliamentarians to lose their seats due to the constitutional bar on dual citizenship.[255] Having renounced his British citizenship, he was returned as the Member for Bennelong at the December 2017 by-election.[256]

John Alexander
Image source: Auspic

12 November

Hairdresser’s last cut in the building

Capital Hair hairdresser Martine Kendall finishes up at Parliament House after 14 years, having taken over the salon in 2007. Martine says that she rarely talked politics with clients noting that ‘[i]t was their chill time, their relaxed time’ and that she ‘missed saying goodbye to a lot of my pollies, some of the interstaters’. DPS states ‘[Martine] will be missed … [and] wishes her well for the future’.^[257]

15 November

Lockdowns in parts of NT

The NT Government announces a 72-hour lockdown for Katherine, Robinson River and surrounding areas.^[258] The lockdown is extended in Katherine until 8 December and Robinson River until 1 December.^[259]

20 November

Death of the Hon Donald Grimes AO

Former ALP Senator and Minister in the Hawke ministry, Donald Grimes dies in Launceston, Tasmania.

A medical practitioner, Grimes successfully campaigned for the Senate as an ALP candidate in the 1974 election. He was re-elected in 1975, 1977 and 1983, retiring from Parliament in 1987.

Grimes joined the Opposition front bench in 1976, becoming the shadow minister for social security and veteran’s affairs. After the election of the Hawke Government in 1983, Grimes served as Minister for Social Security (1983-84) and Minister for Community Services (1984-87). His ‘crowning ministerial achievement was the enactment of the Disability Services Act 1986’.[260]

After leaving Parliament, Grimes served as Australian Ambassador to The Netherlands and chaired the World Health Organisation committee on AIDS in prisons. He later served on the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (1991-96) and chaired the Australian National Council on AIDS (1992-96). Condolence Motions paying tribute to Mr Grimes are debated in the Senate and the House of Representatives on 8 and 9 February 2022.

Donald Grimes
Image source: Auspic

22 November

Remote Participation

The House of Representatives adopts a further Agreement for remote participation. Eight members participate remotely over this period.[261] The Senate similarly adopts rules for remote participation for the 22 November to 2 December sittings.[262]

22 November

Tony Smith steps down as Speaker

On 28 October Tony Smith, announced that he planned to resign as Speaker of the House of Representatives and end his parliamentary career focussing on the constituents of Casey.^[263]

Tony Smith sits as Speaker for the last time and on his departure the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, and other senior parliamentarians commend him for his service.^[264]

On 23 November Mr Smith informs the Governor-General of his resignation as Speaker.^[265]

Tony Smith sits for the last time as Speaker
Image source: DPS Broadcasting
Watch statements

22 November

Five Government senators cross the floor

Government senators Matt Canavan, Sam McMahon (CLP, NT), Concetta Fierravanti-Wells (Lib., NSW), Gerard Rennick and Alex Antic (Lib., SA) cross the floor to support the COVID-19 Vaccination Status (Prevention of Discrimination) Bill 2021 sponsored by Senator Pauline Hanson (PHON, Qld). The Bill seeks to prohibit ‘discrimination on the basis of whether a person has received a COVID-19 vaccination’.^[266]

The Bill is defeated 5 votes to 44 at the second reading.^[267]

23 November

Andrew Wallace elected Speaker

Andrew Wallace (Lib., Fisher, Qld) is elected as the 31^st Speaker of the House of Representatives, winning the ballot against Rob Mitchell (ALP, McEwen, Vic.) 70 votes to 59.^[268]

He is the sixth Speaker from Queensland, and the second Speaker to represent Fisher (the first being Peter Slipper).

As Speaker Wallace takes the Chair, the mace­­—the symbol of the authority of the House and the Speaker—is laid upon the Table. The new Speaker pays tribute to his predecessor Tony Smith for his ‘firmness, his fairness and his excellence’. Noting the independence of the office, he announces he will not sit in the party room, ‘in keeping with the practice of [his] predecessors’.^[269]

Andrew Wallace
Image source: Auspic
Watch the election of the new Speaker

23 November

MOU on search warrants involving parliamentary privilege

The President of the Senate tables a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Presiding Officers, the Attorney-General and the Minister for Home Affairs regarding the execution of search warrants that involve parliament privilege. On the following day, the Speaker presents these documents to the House of Representatives.^[270]The Australian Federal Police accordingly updates its procedures dealing with material that may be subject to parliamentary privilege.^[271]

Image source: Speaker, President, Attorney-General and Minister for Home Affairs

23 November

Motion to suspend inquiry

The Senate agrees to suspend an inquiry into ABC and SBS complaints handling, currently before the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee, until the independent review of the ABC’s complaints system has been completed.^[272]

23 November

Public Interest claims and National Cabinet

Senator Rex Patrick moves a motion regarding the Senate’s position on Public Interest Immunity claims relating to National Cabinet. The Senate resolved it:

will not countenance public interest immunity claims made on the grounds that provision of a document or information related to the National Cabinet ordered by the Senate, or sought by a Senate committee or a senator, would reveal cabinet deliberations.^[273]

On the next day Senator Patrick moves another motion, and the Senate made a further order:

by no later than 9 am on Tuesday, 30 November 2021, the documents required by any Senate order, committee resolution or question on notice to which a claim of public interest immunity was made on the unacceptable ground that material related to the National Cabinet is subject to Cabinet confidentiality.^[274]

Rex Patrick
Image source: Auspic

23 November

SA open to interstate vaccinated travellers

SA removes border restrictions for people who are fully vaccinated to enter the state.^[275]

24 November

George Christensen crosses the floor

Government member George Christensen crosses the floor to vote against the Government’s Corporations Amendment (Improving Outcomes for Litigation Funding Participants) Bill 2021.^[276] The Government narrowly wins the vote.

George Christensen
Image source: Auspic

25 November

Bridget Archer crosses the floor

Bridget Archer (Lib., Bass, Tas.) crosses the floor to support a motion by Helen Haines to allow debate on her private members Bill, Australian Federal Integrity Commission Bill 2021 (No. 2).^[277] The motion is defeated, as it does not receive an absolute majority.^[278]

Bridget Archer
Image source: Auspic

25 November

Giving Tree launch

The Presiding Officers launch the building’s Giving Tree initiative.

With Parliament House closed to the public due to the pandemic, the event was not enlivened by its usual choral performance. However, it did include a musical interlude in the form of the ringing of the Senate division bells—leaving Speaker of the House of Representatives Andrew Wallace to illuminate the Parliament’s Christmas tree.

Donations will support the Australian Indigenous Leadership Centre and The Food Centre based in SA.^[279] 

Giving Tree
Image source: Australian Parliament House, Twitter
Watch the lighting of the Giving Tree

27 November

COVID-19 Human Biosecurity Emergency Declaration—Omicron Response Measures

The Government announces new border security measures to manage the COVID-19 Omicron variant (which had first been detected in South Africa on 9 November 2021).[280] The new measures restrict travel to Australia from African countries where the variant has been detected.

29 November

Fifth annual statement on veterans and their families

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Andrew Gee, delivers a statement on veterans and their families, referencing, inter alia, the Afghanistan withdrawal, veteran well-being centres, grant programs, and the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

Further debate is referred to the Federation Chamber.

Andrew Gee
Image source: Auspic

30 November

Unauthorised disclosure of report

The Chair of the House of Representatives Committee on Privileges and Members’ Interests, Russell Broadbent (Lib., Monash, Vic.), presents the Committee's report Register of Members' Interests: complaint concerning the member for Pearce. Mr Broadbent informs the House that the Guardian Australia had the previous day published an article disclosing details of the report and the Committee’s deliberations in an apparent breach of privilege. He then indicates his intention to resign as Chair in the next sitting period.[281]

30 November

Release of the Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces (2021)

Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins launches the Set the Standard report. The report makes 28 recommendations, with Commissioner Jenkins stating:

In designing the recommendations, we have balanced the need for clear standards, and an independent complaints body to enforce those standards, with the need to establish professional systems and processes to support people and bring this workplace into line with other Australian workplaces.^[282]

The report also sets out five key shifts required in the areas of [1] leadership, [2] diversity, equality and inclusion, [3] systems to support performance, [4] standards, reporting and accountability and [5] safety and wellbeing.

Image source: Australian Human Rights Commission

30 November

Sharon Bird delivers valedictory speech

Sharon Bird (Cunningham, ALP, NSW) delivers her valedictory speech.^[283]

She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2004 and has served continuously since. She has been a member of various parliamentary committees, particularly those relating to education, employment, transport and infrastructure.^[284]

Sharon Bird
Image source: Auspic
Watch Ms Bird’s valedictory speech (from 16:18)

29 November and 1 December

2022 sitting calendar adopted

The House of Representatives and Senate agree to the Government’s proposed 2022 sitting calendar,[285] ‘much of it speculative as the timing of the federal election is unknown’.[286]

The Senate will meet for only three days (plus a week of additional estimates hearings) before the earliest ever Federal Budget, on 29 March.[287]

The Australian Greens propose two sitting weeks in early March, but this proposal is not supported.[288]

Image source: PMC

30 November

Condolence motions for David Dalaithngu

In the House of Representatives, condolence motions pay tribute to David Dalaithngu, a Yolŋgu actor, dancer and artist who passed away on 29 November.

The Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, describes him as ‘a mirror to the soul of Australia’.^[289]

David Dalaithngu
Image source: AAP Terry Trewin

1 December

Free vote on Mitochondrial Donation Bill

The House of Representatives votes on the Mitochondrial Donation Law Reform (Maeve’s Law) Bill 2021 by way of a free conscience vote, rather than along party lines.^[290] The Bill is named in honour of Maeve Hood who ‘has a severe type of mitochondrial disease’; [291] and seeks to make mitochondrial donation legal in Australia.[292]

After the third reading, the Prime Minister and the former Shadow Minister for Health Chris Bowen make statements commending the ‘compassionate, considered and reasoned way in which this House has conducted this debate’.[293]

The Bill is introduced in the Senate on 2 December.[294]

1 December

Government members cross the floor

Government members George Christensen and Llew O’Brien (NP, Wide Bay, Qld) cross the floor to vote in favour of a motion proposed by Craig Kelly to end vaccine mandates. The motion was defeated.^[295]

Llew O’Brien
Image source: Auspic

1 December

Four Electoral Bills introduced and passed

Four election-related Bills—Electoral Legislation Amendment (Annual Disclosure Equality) Bill 2021, Electoral Legislation Amendment (Assurance of Senate Counting) Bill 2021, Electoral Legislation Amendment (Contingency Measures) Bill 2021 and Electoral Legislation Amendment (Political Campaigners) Bill 2021—are introduced in the Senate during the sitting fortnight and passed under a guillotine on this date. The last listed Bill passed without debate.^[296]

1 December

Christian Porter not recontesting

Christian Porter announces that he will not contest the next federal election.^[297]

Mr Porter was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2013 and re-elected in 2016 and 2019. He held several ministerial appointments, including Attorney-General.^[298]

Christian Porter
Image Source: Auspic

2 December

Greg Mirabella fills Senate casual vacancy

Greg Mirabella (Lib., Vic.) is chosen by a joint sitting of the Victorian Parliament to fill the casual vacancy following the resignation of former Senate President Scott Ryan.

As the summer recess is imminent, the new Senator will not be sworn in until the 2022 sittings. However, he is appointed to several committees.^[299]

2 December

Alan Tudge stands aside from portfolio

The Minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge (Lib., Aston, Vic.) stands aside from his portfolio,^[300] pending an investigation by the PM&C into allegations of emotional and physical abuse made by former staffer Rachelle Miller.^[301]

Alan Tudge
Image source: Auspic

2 December

Greg Hunt not recontesting and delivers valedictory speech

Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt announces that he will not recontest the next federal election and delivers his valedictory speech.^[302]

Mr Hunt was first elected to the House of Representatives as the Member for Flinders in 2001 and retained his seat in the six subsequent elections.

Greg Hunt
Image source: Auspic
Watch Mr Hunt’s valedictory speech (from 15:17)

2 December

Chris Hayes valedictory

Chief Opposition Whip Chris Hayes (ALP, Fowler, NSW) delivers his valedictory speech, having announced his intention to retire at the next election.^[303]

Mr Hayes was first elected in 2005 at a by-election to the seat of Werriwa and re-elected in 2007. From 2010 he was elected to the seat of Fowler.

Chris Hayes
Image source: Auspic
Watch Mr Haye’s valedictory speech (from 9:31)

4 December

Parliament House reopens to the public

After four months of being closed, Parliament House reopens to welcome back visitors, with new tours on offer and access to the roof resuming.^[304] 

10 December

Beehives return

Two hives of native stingless bees return to Parliament House, after being at NSW Government House in Sydney during winter. According to DPS:

These native bees are tropical bees and can only live in Canberra in the warmer months. The bees present no risk to people near the hives as they are stingless and harmless.^[305]

Native stingless bees
Image source: Australian Parliament House, Twitter

13 December

Queensland opens to interstate travel

Queensland borders re-open to interstate travel without quarantining for people who are double vaccinated. Around this date Queensland expects to reach 80% double vaccination rates.^[306]

13 December

Update on WA’s reopening

WA Premier, Mark McGowan, announces that the state will reopen to interstate travel from 5 February 2022, with new testing requirements depending on the length of travel. Near this date WA expects to have a 90% double dose vaccination rate.^[307]

In January 2022 Premier McGowen announces that the border opening has been delayed due to concern about the impact of the Omicron variant.[308]

20 December

NT opens to interstate travel

People who are double vaccinated can enter the NT without quarantining. However, they will have to stay in a high vaccination zone for 14 days following their arrival.^[309]

31 December

COVID-19 Tally

As at 3pm on 31 December 2021, ‘a total of 395,504 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Australia, including 2,239 deaths, and approximately 137,752 active cases’.^[310]

As of 26 December 2021, ‘over 278 million cases and just under 5.4 million deaths have been reported globally’.^[311]